Legislature to hear Millett bill to prioritize funding for school safety and security upgrades
AUGUSTA — The Legislative Council on Tuesday unanimously approved an after-deadline bill request from Sen. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, seeking to strengthen the safety and security of children at school.
LR 2949, “An Act To Include Security Installations and Upgrades in Maine’s School Revolving Renovation Fund,” would include “installations and upgrades for school facilities security” as top priority needs for the existing School Revolving Construction Fund. This will expedite school security updates for school buildings that need it and help keep Maine’s children safe in their classrooms.
“Between the horrific events in Parkland earlier this month and the repeated threats resulting in the closure of Maine schools, it is clear that we must take some action as lawmakers to keep our children in schools safer,” said Sen. Millett. “This bill seeks to provide funding for schools to make essential updates to security systems.”
“No parent should be afraid to drop their child off at school and no child should be expected to learn amid constant threats of violence. As a lawmaker and a parent, I know this bill is only part of the solution to keep our kids safe. I am determined to continue working with my colleagues to enact legislation to keep our children in schools safe.”
This Legislation comes after the recent events in Parkland, Florida and the increasing number of threats and incidents regarding weapons occurring in Maine schools.
Bills submitted for consideration during the Second Regular Session must be approved by a majority of the 10-member Legislative Council. The Council is comprised of the five top Democrats and five Republicans in the House and Senate, meaning bipartisan support is required for any bill to be accepted.
The legislation, still in draft form, will be finalized in the coming weeks and referenced to a legislative committee for a public hearing. A public hearing will be announced at a later date.
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